PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The review highlights the influence of nutrients over the secretion of several hormones produced by enteroendocrine cells in the gastrointestinal tract that secrete incretin hormones. These hormones influence glucose homeostasis; food intake; gastric, pancreatic and hepatic secretions; and gastric and intestinal motility, and these aspects are summarized in this review.RECENT FINDINGS: This study provides an overview of recent advances in our understanding of the physiology of the incretins, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), as well as of oxyntomodulin. A better understanding of the secretion and action of these hormones at their receptors was made possible by new techniques that allow investigation of individual enteroendocrine cells.SUMMARY: The better understanding of the function of the gastrointestinal incretin hormones and their implications for improving glucose homeostasis and perhaps influencing food intake and appetite as well, new research in this area will help combat metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and obesity.